Spike in UK flu cases leads to Public Health warning

While IOM isn't experiencing the same issues, residents urged to remain vigilant

Public Health Isle of Man's warning the number of flu cases in the UK is rising earlier than expected.

While the Island isn't currently experiencing the same increase, residents are being urged to remain vigilant.

Typically flu levels in the UK begin to rise above 10% in late November.

However, this year, that threshold was reached in late October.

Public Health says you can protect yourself by practising good hand and respiratory hygiene, keeping your home well-ventilated and staying away from vulnerable people if you feel unwell.

It adds vaccination remains the best way to be protected, which is available for:

• Children aged two-three years
• School-aged children
• Pregnant women
• People aged 65 and over
• Individuals with long-term health conditions
• Carers and close contacts of immunosuppressed individuals
• Frontline health and social care workers

Director of Public Health, Dr Matt Tyrer, said: "As we head into the festive season, people are likely to mix more and travel to the UK to visit relatives. We want to remind everyone to take simple steps to reduce the risk of catching flu or other respiratory illnesses.

"You can protect yourself by practising good hand and respiratory hygiene, keeping your home well-ventilated, and staying at home and away from vulnerable people if you feel unwell.

Around 47% of eligible residents have had the seasonal flu vaccine on the Isle of Man, which Public Health has described as 'steady'.

Flu is described as a serious disease that can result in having to go to hospital, and the vaccine is said to reduce this risk and is especially effective for preventing serious illness in children.

Teresa Cope, CEO of Manx Care, said: "Respiratory illnesses like flu can cause serious complications, especially for young children, older people, pregnant women, and those with long-term conditions such as diabetes or respiratory problems.

"A significant spread of flu locally could lead to increased hospitalisations and even deaths. 

"Please get vaccinated if you are eligible and if you’re unsure, speak to your GP practice.

"Symptoms of respiratory illness can include a high temperature, cough, sore throat, tiredness, headaches or muscle aches. If you have any of these symptoms, stay at home and avoid healthcare settings. If you are concerned about your symptoms, or they are worsening, seek medical advice by contacting your GP practice or out of hours providers."